Principlev1
Match intervention timing to the causal chain by targeting
Match intervention timing to the causal chain by targeting earlier decision points rather than trying to override behavior at the moment of execution.
Why This Is a Principle
Derives from Earlier interventions in the emotional process are generally (earlier interventions more effective). The principle prescribes timing strategy: intervene upstream. It's actionable (tells you WHEN to intervene), general (applies across behavior change domains), and is illustrated through the meal prep example—deciding on Sunday prevents dozens of in-the-moment decisions during the week.